Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A computer-implemented method, comprising: generating, by a first device, a notification that a resource within a distributed computing environment is to be reclaimed when an expiration period ends, wherein the reclaimed resource is eligible for use by any processing device included in a set of devices within the distributed computing environment; determining, by the first device, whether the resource is claimed for use by a first processing device included in the set of devices; and performing, by the first device, an operation to reclaim the resource when the resource is unclaimed by the first processing device at the end of the expiration period.
In distributed computing environments, efficiently managing and reallocating resources is critical to maintaining performance and availability. When resources are no longer needed by a processing device, they should be reclaimed and made available to other devices in the system. However, ensuring timely reclamation without disrupting ongoing operations can be challenging. This invention addresses this problem by providing a computer-implemented method for resource reclamation in a distributed computing environment. A first device generates a notification indicating that a resource is eligible for reclamation once an expiration period ends. The resource, once reclaimed, can be used by any processing device within a predefined set of devices in the environment. The first device then checks whether the resource is still in use by a first processing device within the set. If the resource remains unclaimed by the first processing device when the expiration period concludes, the first device performs an operation to reclaim the resource, making it available for other devices. This approach ensures that resources are efficiently reallocated while minimizing disruptions to active processes. The method may also include additional steps, such as determining whether other devices have claimed the resource before the expiration period ends, to further optimize resource management.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resource has a classification, and a reclamation rule specifies a fixed expiration period for the classification.
A system and method for managing resource reclamation in a computing environment involves classifying resources and applying reclamation rules based on those classifications. The method includes determining a classification for a resource, such as a file, database entry, or memory allocation, and then applying a reclamation rule associated with that classification. The reclamation rule specifies a fixed expiration period, which defines how long the resource should be retained before being automatically reclaimed or deleted. The system monitors the resource's age relative to the expiration period and triggers reclamation when the period elapses. This approach ensures that resources are automatically managed based on their classification, reducing manual intervention and improving system efficiency. The method may also include dynamically adjusting the expiration period based on system conditions or user-defined policies, ensuring flexibility in resource management. By classifying resources and applying fixed expiration rules, the system optimizes storage and memory usage while maintaining data integrity and availability.
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising identifying, based on a user name, the first processing device as a candidate owner for the resource.
A system and method for resource management in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently assigning and tracking ownership of shared resources among multiple processing devices. The invention identifies a candidate owner for a resource based on a user name associated with the resource. This involves determining which processing device is linked to the user name and designating that device as a potential owner. The method also includes monitoring resource usage, detecting when a resource is no longer in use, and automatically reclaiming the resource for reassignment. Additionally, the system may track resource ownership changes, log usage history, and enforce access controls to prevent unauthorized use. The invention improves resource utilization by ensuring resources are allocated to the most relevant processing devices while maintaining accountability through user-based ownership tracking. This approach is particularly useful in cloud computing, virtualized environments, or multi-tenant systems where resource allocation must be dynamic and secure.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining that the resource can be reclaimed based on a date on which the resource was last accessed.
A system and method for managing resource reclamation in a computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently identifying and reclaiming unused resources to optimize system performance and storage. The method involves monitoring resource usage and determining whether a resource can be reclaimed based on its last access date. By tracking when a resource was last accessed, the system evaluates whether it has been inactive for a sufficient period, indicating it is no longer needed. This determination is used to trigger reclamation processes, such as deleting or archiving the resource, to free up system resources. The method may also include additional criteria, such as resource type or priority, to refine reclamation decisions. The system ensures that resources are reclaimed only when they are no longer in use, preventing unnecessary loss of active data while improving system efficiency. This approach is particularly useful in environments with limited storage or where resource optimization is critical, such as cloud computing, databases, or file systems. The method helps maintain system performance by reducing unnecessary resource consumption and ensuring that available resources are allocated to active processes.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, and further comprising determining that the resource can be reclaimed based on a software version number associated with the resource.
This invention relates to resource management in computing systems, specifically determining whether a software application instance can be reclaimed based on its version number. The problem addressed is efficiently identifying and reclaiming underutilized or outdated software resources to optimize system performance and resource allocation. The method involves monitoring software application instances running in a computing environment. For each instance, the system checks the associated software version number to determine if the instance can be reclaimed. The reclamation decision is based on predefined criteria, such as whether the version is outdated, no longer supported, or no longer needed. This allows the system to automatically free up resources occupied by unnecessary or obsolete software instances, improving overall system efficiency. The method may also include additional steps such as analyzing usage patterns, checking dependencies, or verifying compatibility before reclaiming the resource. By integrating version number checks, the system ensures that only appropriate instances are targeted for reclamation, preventing disruption to critical or actively used applications. This approach enhances resource utilization and reduces operational overhead in dynamic computing environments.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the first device from the first processing device, a request to extend the expiration period, and, in response to the request, extending the expiration period that the resource is claimed by the first processing device.
A system and method for managing resource allocation in a computing environment involves dynamically extending the expiration period of a claimed resource. The system includes a first device that monitors and controls access to shared resources among multiple processing devices. Each processing device can claim a resource for a limited time, after which the resource is released and made available to others. To prevent premature release, the first device receives a request from a processing device to extend the expiration period of its claimed resource. Upon receiving this request, the first device extends the expiration period, allowing the processing device to continue using the resource without interruption. This extension mechanism ensures efficient resource utilization while preventing conflicts and ensuring fair access. The system may also include additional features such as priority-based allocation, resource preemption, and dynamic adjustment of expiration times based on system load or demand. The method ensures that processing devices can maintain control over critical resources when needed, improving system performance and reliability.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, a user account, or a storage volume.
This invention relates to resource management in computing systems, specifically addressing the need to efficiently allocate and manage different types of resources, such as software applications, user accounts, and storage volumes. The method involves dynamically assigning and deallocating these resources based on demand, ensuring optimal utilization and availability. The system monitors resource usage patterns and automatically scales resources up or down to meet current requirements, preventing over-provisioning or shortages. For software applications, this includes instantiating or terminating application instances as needed. For user accounts, it involves creating or deactivating accounts dynamically. For storage volumes, the method adjusts storage capacity by expanding or shrinking volumes based on usage. The system also enforces access controls and security policies to ensure only authorized users or processes can interact with the resources. By automating resource management, the invention improves efficiency, reduces operational overhead, and enhances scalability in computing environments. The solution is particularly useful in cloud computing, virtualized environments, and multi-tenant systems where resource demands fluctuate frequently.
8. One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media including instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the steps of: generating, by a first device, a notification that a resource within a distributed computing environment is to be reclaimed when an expiration period ends, wherein the reclaimed resource is eligible for user by any processing device included in a set of devices within the distributed computing environment; determining, by the first device, whether the resource is claimed for use by a first processing device included in the set of devices; and performing, by the first device, an operation to reclaim the resource when the resource is unclaimed by the first processing device at the end of the expiration period.
In distributed computing environments, resources such as memory, storage, or processing capacity are often allocated dynamically to multiple devices. A challenge arises in efficiently reclaiming these resources when they are no longer needed, ensuring they remain available for other devices while avoiding premature reclamation that could disrupt ongoing operations. This invention addresses this problem by implementing a system that monitors and reclaims resources in a controlled manner. The system uses a first device to generate a notification indicating that a resource is eligible for reclamation once an expiration period ends. The resource is part of a shared pool accessible to any device within the distributed environment. The first device then checks whether the resource is actively claimed by a processing device in the set. If the resource remains unclaimed by the expiration period, the first device performs an operation to reclaim it, making it available for future use. This approach ensures resources are reclaimed only when they are truly unused, preventing disruptions while maintaining system efficiency. The system may also include additional steps, such as tracking resource usage or adjusting expiration periods based on demand, to optimize resource management further.
9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , wherein the resource has a classification, and a reclamation rule specifies a fixed expiration period for the classification.
The invention relates to a system for managing digital resources in a computing environment, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently reclaiming storage space by automatically deleting resources based on predefined rules. The system includes a storage medium containing instructions that, when executed, perform operations to identify a resource stored in a data storage system, determine a classification associated with the resource, and apply a reclamation rule to the resource based on its classification. The reclamation rule specifies a fixed expiration period for the classification, meaning the resource will be automatically deleted after the expiration period elapses. The system also includes a data storage system that stores the resource and a processor that executes the instructions to carry out the reclamation process. This approach ensures that resources are systematically removed from storage after a set time, reducing manual intervention and optimizing storage utilization. The invention is particularly useful in environments where large volumes of data are generated and must be managed efficiently, such as cloud storage systems or enterprise data centers.
10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , further comprising identifying, based on a user name, the first processing device as a candidate owner for the resource.
A system and method for resource management in a computing environment involves identifying and assigning ownership of shared resources to processing devices. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently managing and allocating resources in distributed computing systems where multiple devices may compete for access to shared resources. The system includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing instructions that, when executed, perform operations such as detecting a resource request from a first processing device, determining whether the first processing device is a candidate owner for the resource, and granting ownership of the resource to the first processing device if it is identified as a candidate owner. The determination of candidate ownership is based on a user name associated with the first processing device. The system may also include additional steps such as receiving a resource request from a second processing device, determining that the second processing device is not a candidate owner, and denying ownership of the resource to the second processing device. The method ensures that only authorized or eligible processing devices can obtain ownership of shared resources, improving resource allocation efficiency and security in distributed computing environments.
11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , further comprising determining that the resource can be reclaimed based on a date on which the resource was last accessed.
A system and method for managing computer resources involves determining whether a resource can be reclaimed based on its last access date. The system monitors resource usage and identifies resources that have not been accessed for a specified period. When a resource is identified as inactive, the system evaluates whether it can be safely reclaimed without disrupting system operations. This evaluation may include checking dependencies, usage patterns, or other criteria to ensure that reclaiming the resource will not cause errors or performance degradation. The system then reclaims the resource, freeing up memory or storage space for other processes. This approach helps optimize system performance by automatically managing resources that are no longer in use, reducing unnecessary resource consumption and improving efficiency. The method can be applied to various types of resources, including memory blocks, files, or network connections, and can be implemented in different computing environments, such as servers, desktops, or embedded systems. The system may also include logging or reporting features to track resource reclamation activities and provide insights into system resource usage.
12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, and further comprising determining that the resource can be reclaimed based on a software version number associated with the resource.
The invention relates to resource management in computing systems, specifically determining whether a software application instance can be reclaimed based on its version number. In computing environments, resources such as software applications may need to be reclaimed to free up system memory or other computational resources. However, reclaiming the wrong resource—such as an actively used or critical application—can disrupt system operations. The invention addresses this by analyzing the version number of a software application instance to determine whether it is safe to reclaim. The system compares the version number against a predefined set of criteria, such as compatibility with the current system or user requirements, to decide if the resource can be safely reclaimed without adverse effects. This approach ensures that only outdated or non-critical application instances are targeted for reclamation, improving system stability and performance. The method involves storing the version number metadata with the resource, retrieving it when reclamation is considered, and applying logic to assess whether the version makes the resource eligible for reclamation. This solution is particularly useful in environments where multiple versions of software may coexist, such as cloud computing or virtualized systems.
13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , further comprising: receiving, by the first device from the first processing device, a request to extend the expiration period, and, in response to the request, extending the expiration period that the resource is claimed by the first processing device.
A system and method for managing resource allocation in a computing environment involves dynamically extending the expiration period of a claimed resource. The system includes a first device that monitors resource usage and a first processing device that requests and utilizes resources. The first processing device claims a resource for a limited duration, after which the resource becomes available for other requests. To prevent premature release of the resource, the first processing device can send a request to the first device to extend the expiration period. Upon receiving this request, the first device extends the duration for which the resource remains claimed by the first processing device, allowing uninterrupted use. This mechanism ensures efficient resource utilization while preventing conflicts from overlapping requests. The system may also include additional processing devices and resources, with the first device managing multiple resource claims and extensions across the network. The method involves tracking resource claims, processing extension requests, and updating expiration times to maintain optimal resource allocation. This approach is particularly useful in distributed computing environments where resources must be dynamically allocated and managed to avoid contention and ensure system stability.
14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 8 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, a user account, or a storage volume.
A system and method for managing access to digital resources in a computing environment addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently controlling access to various types of digital assets. The invention provides a mechanism for dynamically granting or restricting access to resources based on predefined policies or real-time conditions. The system includes a policy engine that evaluates access requests against stored rules, ensuring compliance with security and operational requirements. The resource being accessed can be an instance of a software application, a user account, or a storage volume, among other digital assets. The policy engine may also integrate with authentication systems to verify user identities before granting access. Additionally, the system may log access attempts and enforce time-based or role-based restrictions to enhance security. This approach improves resource management by automating access control decisions, reducing administrative overhead, and minimizing unauthorized access risks. The solution is particularly useful in cloud computing, enterprise environments, and multi-tenant systems where granular access control is essential.
15. A system, comprising: a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor and including instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: generate, by a first device, a notification that a resource within a distributed computing environment is to be reclaimed when an expiration period ends wherein the reclaimed resource is eligible for use by any processing device included in a set of devices within the distributed computing environment; determine, by the first device, whether the resource is claimed for use by a first processing device included in the set of devices; and perform, by the first device, an operation to reclaim the resource when the resource is unclaimed by the first processing device at the end of the expiration period.
The system operates in a distributed computing environment where resources are dynamically allocated and reclaimed. The problem addressed is inefficient resource utilization, where resources may remain unused or underutilized due to lack of coordination among processing devices. The system includes a processor and memory with instructions to manage resource reclamation. A first device generates a notification indicating that a resource is to be reclaimed when an expiration period ends. The reclaimed resource becomes available for any processing device within the set of devices in the distributed environment. The first device then checks whether the resource is claimed by a first processing device in the set. If the resource is unclaimed at the end of the expiration period, the first device performs an operation to reclaim it, making it available for other devices. This ensures optimal resource allocation by preventing idle resources from being held indefinitely. The system enhances efficiency by automating the reclamation process based on predefined expiration periods and claim status.
16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the resource has a classification, and a reclamation rule specifies a fixed expiration period for the classification.
The system involves managing digital resources in a computing environment, particularly focusing on resource reclamation to optimize storage and performance. The problem addressed is the inefficient handling of digital resources, leading to unnecessary storage consumption and degraded system performance. The system includes a resource manager that monitors and reclaims resources based on predefined rules. A key feature is the ability to classify resources and apply reclamation rules specific to those classifications. For example, a resource with a particular classification may be subject to a fixed expiration period, meaning the system automatically reclaims the resource after a set time. This ensures that resources are not retained longer than necessary, improving storage efficiency and system performance. The reclamation rules can be dynamically adjusted based on system conditions or user-defined policies, allowing for flexible and adaptive resource management. The system also includes mechanisms to track resource usage and prioritize reclamation based on factors such as access frequency, age, or importance. By automating the reclamation process, the system reduces manual intervention and minimizes the risk of resource leaks or excessive storage consumption.
17. The system of claim 15 , further comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to identify, based on a user name, the first processing device as a candidate owner for the resource.
A system for resource management in a computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently assigning and tracking ownership of shared resources among multiple processing devices. The system includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the processor to manage resource allocation. Specifically, the system identifies a first processing device as a candidate owner for a resource based on a user name associated with the device. This identification process ensures that resources are assigned to the appropriate device, improving system efficiency and reducing conflicts. The system also includes a network interface for communicating with other processing devices and a storage device for maintaining resource allocation data. The instructions further enable the processor to determine whether the first processing device is authorized to access the resource, verify the device's eligibility, and update the resource's ownership status accordingly. This ensures secure and accurate resource management, preventing unauthorized access and optimizing resource utilization. The system dynamically adjusts ownership based on user interactions, enhancing flexibility and responsiveness in resource allocation.
18. The system of claim 15 , further comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to determine that the resource can be reclaimed based on a date on which the resource was last accessed.
A system for managing digital resources includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, perform operations to reclaim unused resources. The system monitors resource usage and identifies resources that have not been accessed for a specified period. The system determines whether a resource can be reclaimed based on the last access date, ensuring that only inactive resources are targeted. This helps optimize storage and computational efficiency by freeing up resources that are no longer in use. The system may also include a user interface to display resource usage statistics and allow users to adjust reclamation settings. The reclamation process may involve deleting, archiving, or compressing the resource to free up system resources. The system may further include a notification mechanism to alert users before reclaiming resources, allowing them to retain important data. The reclamation criteria can be customized based on user preferences, resource type, or system policies. This approach prevents unnecessary resource consumption while maintaining data integrity for actively used resources.
19. The system of claim 15 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, and further comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to determine that the resource can be reclaimed based on a software version number associated with the resource.
The system manages software resources in a computing environment, addressing the challenge of efficiently reclaiming unused or outdated software instances to optimize system performance and resource allocation. The system includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the processor to monitor and manage software applications running in the environment. A key feature is the ability to determine whether a software application instance can be reclaimed based on its version number. This allows the system to identify outdated or redundant instances that may no longer be needed, ensuring that only necessary or up-to-date software applications consume system resources. The system may also include a resource manager that tracks the usage and state of software applications, enabling dynamic reclamation decisions. By leveraging version numbers, the system ensures that only relevant software instances are retained, improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary resource consumption. This approach is particularly useful in environments where multiple versions of software applications may coexist, such as cloud computing or virtualized systems.
20. The system of claim 15 , further including instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, by the first device from the first processing device, a request to extend the expiration period, and, in response to the request, extend the expiration period that the resource is claimed by the first processing device.
A system for managing resource allocation in a computing environment addresses the problem of efficiently extending resource usage periods without manual intervention. The system includes a first device and a first processing device, where the first processing device claims a resource for a limited time. The system monitors resource usage and expiration times, ensuring optimal allocation and preventing conflicts. When the first processing device requires additional time with the resource, it sends a request to the first device. Upon receiving this request, the system automatically extends the expiration period for the resource, allowing continued use without interruption. This extension process is automated, reducing administrative overhead and improving resource utilization efficiency. The system may also include additional features such as tracking resource usage, enforcing expiration policies, and managing multiple processing devices competing for the same resource. By dynamically adjusting expiration periods based on demand, the system ensures fair and efficient resource distribution in shared computing environments.
21. The system of claim 15 , wherein the resource comprises an instance of a software application, a user account, or a storage volume.
A system for managing access to computing resources in a cloud environment addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently controlling access to various types of resources. The system includes a policy engine that evaluates access requests against predefined policies to determine whether access should be granted. The policies may incorporate factors such as user identity, resource type, time of access, and geographic location. The system also includes a monitoring component that tracks access patterns and detects anomalies, such as unauthorized access attempts or unusual usage. When an anomaly is detected, the system can automatically adjust access permissions or trigger alerts for further investigation. The system is designed to manage different types of resources, including software application instances, user accounts, and storage volumes. For software applications, the system ensures that only authorized users can launch or interact with specific instances. For user accounts, it enforces role-based access controls to restrict permissions based on the user's role within an organization. For storage volumes, the system regulates read and write operations to prevent unauthorized data access or modification. The system also supports dynamic policy updates, allowing administrators to modify access rules in real-time without disrupting ongoing operations. This flexibility ensures that the system can adapt to changing security requirements and organizational policies.
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October 6, 2020
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